Luxury Safaris in the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve made for you

Singita Pamushana Lodge sits perched overlooking the Chiredzi River in the wild, Mopane forested hills of the private Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve and is every inch the luxurious and authentic Zimbabwean safari stay. From protecting and managing a large section of wilderness, to supporting and nurturing local youngsters who may be interested in becoming rangers and conservationists, the lodge is playing an important role in a variety of ways in the area. Thatch palapa-style buildings reach up through the trees and descend to heavily overhang its open-sided sitting rooms and dining areas for far-reaching views and the African essence of blending the outside with indoors. Loud ethnic patterns weaving themselves between soft earthy hues, inviting traditional furniture, local art and antiques decorate the lounges, spilling into the luxury suites of this lodge. Also, in true Singita-style, there is an astounding level of amenities that pay no regard to the remote location of the lodge: three lounges, spa, WiFi, satellite TV, wine cellar and two heated swimming pools. In addition to the six suites that have their own plunge pools and panoramic terraces, there is a private villa with five bedrooms: perfect for a family or group of good friends.

Set in Zimbabwe by the Zambezi River in Mana Pools National Park, Wilderness Ruckomechi Camp is located by the elephants’ much-loved albida trees, favoured for their pods. This makes the camp ideal for viewing these massive mammals without even having to leave the lodge. From the camp’s position on the banks of the river, you can see the Great Rift Valley on the opposite side of the Zambezi, a view which you can take in from the comfortable star-gazing deck. Each of the ten tented rooms have indoor and outdoor showers. And there’s a dining and lounge area, plus an infinity pool for cooling off after a safari. When it comes to exploring the land, there are a variety of options. You can discover the area on foot on a walking safari, or take to the water for a cruise in a nine-seat pontoon, six-seat speed boat or even a canoe. Naturally, game drives leave every morning and afternoon, too. Birds are prevalent, with species including the western banded snake-eagle, three-banded courser, Arnot’s chat, African golden oriole, and Meve’s starling. Other types of wildlife you can see on safari from Wilderness Ruckomechi Camp (aside from the resident elephants) include leopard, hippopotamuses, Burchell’s zebra, lion and buffalo.

Wilderness Linkwasha Camp lies in the south-eastern corner of the legendary Hwange National Park, on a private concession close to the famed Ngamo Plains, offering excellent year-round game viewing that peaks during the summer months. Though Hwange is Zimbabwe’s most popular national park, Linkwasha’s private concessions means that guests will never see another game vehicle except those from the camp. A completely new camp, built from the ground up on the footprint of the old Linkwasha, the fresh, open and airy design is complemented by an eclectic mix of contemporary interiors with the original spirit and essence of safari. Nine en-suite luxury tents and one family tent overlook the waterhole, with the communal areas, including a pool area and a winter lounge complete with library, enjoying the same view. If you want to get even closer to nature, spend a night on Wilderness Linkwasha’s Star Bed, located on a raised platform a short drive from the main camp with nothing but a mosquito net between you and the wild. Overlooking Scott’s Pan, a favourite drinking spot for game, you can be assured of incredible sightings and a guide will be set up a short distance away should you need any assistance during the night. Wildlife frequently encountered in this area includes lion, large herds of elephant, buffalo, leopard, spotted hyena, giraffe, sable, blue wildebeest, impala, waterbuck and reedbuck. In summer, wildebeest, zebra and eland are found in abundance on the open plains, while in winter elephant congregate in enormous numbers around the waterholes. Typically for Zimbabwe, birdlife in the area is prolific with over 400 species recorded. Aside from day and evening game drives, the bush can be explored on foot and respectful visits to a local village can also be organised.